Kenneth J. Bingman

2009 Kansas Master Teacher

Honors and AP BiologyBlue Valley West High SchoolUSD 229 Blue Valley

Kenneth J. Bingman has learned a central truth in his 46 years of teaching experience: the most important requirement is for the instructor to love teaching and to like students. “At this age they are the most dynamic, energetic, creative, and fun-loving people I know,” Bingman writes. “One of the challenges is to channel their limitless energy and positive attitudes toward learning. When this happens, students become perpetual learners.”

Bingman embodies these very same characteristics, leaving his mark as a highly renowned educator who former students seek out for friendship and mentoring, a man who spends his summers leading students around the world on educational adventures.

“Mr. Bingman has made a permanent mark on science education worldwide,” one former student writes. Another former student describes how Bingman’s methods extended beyond biology, and the habit of learning. “He is able to teach his students how they learn, making it easier for them to absorb the necessary information in a more timely and efficient manner. It is because of his guidance that I will be much more successful in college than I could hope to be otherwise.”

Tom Trigg, Blue Valley superintendent, has been a student under Bingman and watched his children study under Bingman, and now oversees the entire district. “In all my years as a school administrator (30 years) I have never seen a resume as impressive as Ken’s,” Trigg writes. “His passion for teaching, the teaching profession, the sciences, and students is at a level very seldom seen.”

Bingman earned his bachelor’s degree from the University of Kansas and his master’s degree in biology from Emporia State University. He has taught high school students since 1963.

Emporia State University is a dynamic and progressive student-centered learning community that fosters student success through engagement in academic excellence, community and global involvement, and the pursuit of personal and professional fulfillment.